Normative Data for Quantitative Calcaneal Ultrasonometry in Turkish Children Aged 6 to 14 Years Relationship of the Stiffness Index With Age, Pubertal Stage, Physical Characteristics, and Lifestyle

Objectives Quantitative ultrasonometry is commonly used to assess bone health. The aim of this study was to define normative data for the stiffness index of the calcaneus in healthy Turkish children. Methods Quantitative ultrasonometric measurements of the calcaneus were obtained in 1617 healthy schoolchildren (811 boys and 806 girls) aged 6 to 14 years. Results The stiffness index increased by 19.3% and 12% in boys and girls, respectively. The greatest increases were seen in the age groups of 12 to 13 and 13 to 14 years in boys (3.9%) and 11 to 12 and 12 to 13 years in girls (4.1%). There was a significant increase in stiffness index values among all Tanner stages except stage 4 (P < .05). Although the stiffness index was related to age, weight, and height, no correlation was seen between the stiffness index and calcium intake or physical activity. Conclusions This study provides stiffness index data by age group and Tanner stage that may be useful for assessment of the bone status of Turkish children and can serve as comparative data for other patient groups.